What are the rituals which are performed during the Narayani Puja?
The stages of the puja may include the following: Avahana – the invocation of Narayani Asana – a seat is offered to Narayani Swagatam – Narayani is welcomed, asked about her journey and whether she faced any problem coming to the place of puja Padha – the feet of the deity are washed with water. Arghya – a respectful offering of water is made to Narayani. The water contains sandalwood paste, vermilion and rice. Achamania – water is then offered for washing the face and mouth of Narayani Madhu-parka – a beverage made of honey, sugar and mint offered to Narayani Snanajala – Narayani is offered water for bathing. Holy Water used for the bath is called Theertham. Bhushana abharanasya – clothes, jewels and ornaments are offered next Gandha – sandalwood paste or any other fragrant object is offered Akshata – grains of rice mixed with tumeric and kum kum are offered Pushpanjali – flowers are offered Dhupa – incense is lit Dipa – the lamp is lit Naivedy – rice, fruit, butter and sugar are offe
